You may know him as the iconic Captain Sparrow, the legendary Willy Wonka, or the beloved Scissorhands. But behind all that makeup and beyond those costumes, is a man who has a fear of dancing and urm, collects Barbie dolls. Yeah, you read that right.
Indeed, there are a bunch of cool and quirky facts about Johnny Depp that you probably didn’t know. Controversial court cases and kooky movie roles aside, we present to you a list of fun things about the legendary Johnny Depp including his journey to fame, his hobbies, and other intriguing details about his life.
Quick fire questions:
When is Johnny Depp’s birthday? June 9, 1963
Does Johnny Depp have siblings? He has a brother and two sisters: Daniel Depp, Christi Dembrowski & Debbi Depp
What is Johnny Depp’s net worth? As of 2024, his net worth is $150 million.
Fun and Interesting Facts About Johnny Depp
1. Johnny Grew Up in Florida
Johnny was born on June 9, 1963, in Owensboro, Kentucky. For the first few years of his life, he spent a lot of time moving around due to his dad’s job as a civil engineer. But in 1970, the family finally settled in Miramar, Florida, where Johnny lived until he was 18.
2. He Wanted to be a Rockstar
Considering his huge talent, you’d think Johnny always wanted to be an actor. In fact, his initial dream was to become a rock star. He even dropped out of high school at 16 to pursue a career in music. When returning to school two weeks later, his principal encouraged him to follow his dreams and become a musician. He then went on to get a record deal in L.A. with his band, The Kids. Today, he is part of the rock supergroup, Hollywood Vampires.
3. He Once Worked With Oasis and Aerosmith
Not only did Johnny have his own band, but he also once recorded with the iconic British band, Oasis. He featured as the lead slide guitar on the band’s 1997 track, Fade In-Out. Johnny also collaborated with Aerosmith and Marilyn Manson, before pursuing his acting career.
4. Johnny Depp is Famous Thanks to Nicolas Cage
If it weren’t for Nicolas Cage, we may never have had the pleasure to watch Johnny take on so many delightful movie roles. It was Nicolas who helped him get his first acting job in A Nightmare on Elm Street, after encouraging him to audition for the role. Johnny repaid Nicolas by offering to pay off his debt between 2007-2009.
5. Johnny Was Once the Highest Paid Actor
Captain Sparrow would be proud! In 2012, Johnny was listed as the highest paid actor in the Guinness Book of World Records for earning a total of $75 million in 2011. That great amount of money was earned thanks to his most financially successful films, Pirates of the Caribbean and Alice in Wonderland, each grossing $3 billion and $1 billion, respectively.
6. He Has Never Won an Oscar
Not one of the most fun facts about Johnny Depp, but still mind-blowing nonetheless. Surprised that Leonardo DiCaprio never won an Oscar until 2016? Well, neither has Johnny Depp – ever! It’s shocking to think this Hollywood icon has never received an Academy Award for any of his performances.
But at least his talent hasn’t gone completely unnoticed: Johnny has been nominated for Best Actor three times for his roles in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Finding Neverland, and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.
7. He’s Been with Several Famous Women
Johnny has had his fair share of famous flings — and the majority have been with Hollywood actresses! Over the years, he has been engaged to Jennifer Grey, Sherilyn Fenn, Winona Ryder, and Amber Heard. Johnny also dated supermodel, Kate Moss, for four years, and then French actress and singer Vanessa Paradis, whom he had two children with.
8. Johnny Got a Tattoo Commemorating Winona Ryder
Was Winona Ryder Johnny’s one true love? They really were the definition of ‘power couple‘ back in the ’90s. Johnny even got a tattoo to commemorate Winona, which wrote, ‘Winona Forever’. After they split, Johnny altered the ink to read ‘Wino Forever’. Awkward!
9. He Blamed an Animal For Trashing a Hotel Room
In 1994, Johnny was accused of trashing the Mark Hotel in New York City after having a fight with his girlfriend at the time, Kate Moss. You’ll never guess who (or should we say what) he blamed for the damage…an armadillo! As expected, the so-called armadillo was never found and the actor was arrested and fined with over $10,000 along with damages.
10. Johnny Depp Has a Thing for Barbie Dolls
Yep, it’s as creepy as it sounds! Johnny has admitted that he collects Barbie dolls. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Depp said he “used to test characters” while playing with Barbies and his daughter. “We played a lot of Barbies, my daughter and I. One day we were playing and she said, ‘Daddy, just do it normal. Cut out the voices.’ No more nonsense. And that was the day I stopped playing Barbies!”
11. He Has a Fear of Dancing
He may be a talented actor and musician, but one thing Johnny isn’t good at, is dancing. In fact, he has said that he fears it “more than anything” in the world and would “rather swallow a bag of hair.” Johnny has admitted to never dancing in real life, only as a character in a movie with a choreographed routine.
12. Johnny Visits Children’s Hospitals as Captain Sparrow
A heart of gold! Even though it’s been several years since the last Pirates of the Caribbean movie, Johnny still regularly surprises sick children at hospitals dressed as his character, Captain Sparrow. Making it all the more fun for the kids, he “just sneaks in and go and surprise a bunch of kiddies… It basically turns into a two, three-hour improvisation and it’s really fun.”
13. He Started Smoking at the Age of 12
Johnny developed a bad habit of smoking at the age of just 12 years-old. The actor has also been open about his problem with alcohol. In 1993, Depp told ET, “I poisoned myself on a regular basis with alcohol and it wasn’t a good thing. It wasn’t anything anybody else could cure, whether I had a girlfriend at the time or not. It had nothing to do with them. It had all to do with me and my brain and my heart. It was part of growing up I guess.”
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14. Johnny *Might* Have Royal Blood
Here’s a surprising fact for you: Johnny Depp *might* be related to royalty! On the British TV show Who Do You Think You Are, genealogist Nick Barratt revealed that Depp is “probably” a descendant of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Connected by a mutual great grandfather, Depp and Queen Elizabeth are said to be 20th cousins! Forget Hollywood royalty, looks like Depp might be actual royalty! Who knew!?
15. Johnny is a Book Worm
Johnny might be a mega movie star, but beneath the cool exterior lies a true book lover! Between takes, you can find him lost in the worlds of literary giants like Jack Kerouac and Hunter S. Thompson. He’s such a book fanatic that he can’t resist geeking out about his favorite reads in interviews. Maybe that’s where Captain Jack Sparrow got his sense of adventure — straight from the pages of his favorite novels!
16. He Bought an Entire French village
In 2001, Johnny decided that a “petite maison” wasn’t enough for him and ex-partner, Vanessa Paradis, so he decided to buy an entire village! Nestled 17 miles north of the glamorous St. Tropez, Johnny’s 18th-century gem is sprawled across 37 acres near French Commune Plan-de-La-Tour. Over 15 years, Depp poured millions into meticulously restoring the village’s 12 structures, even adding a skate park and wine cave! Following his split from Vanessa, Johnny put the compound up for sale, but rumor has it that it never actually sold!
17. He Faced Criticism For ‘The Lone Ranger’
In 2013, Johnny’s portrayal of Native American warrior Tonto in The Lone Ranger sparked serious controversy when critics and members of the Native American community pointed out that the character perpetuated negative stereotypes.
At the time, Depp defended himself, stating: “You know, I presented Tonto with, I hope, a dignity and a pride and with respect. And as far as Tonto being eccentric and at times considered aloof, he’s a very wise warrior. To me, [he] always deserved to be what he is: a warrior.”
Although Depp has claimed Cherokee heritage and was welcomed into the Comanche nation tribe while making the film, his Native American ancestry has never actually been proven. Looks like we’ll never really know the truth about this one!
18. He Spent $60,000 in an Indian Restaurant
At the end of his grueling defamation trial with Amber Heard, Johnny made headlines after spending a serious amount of money of food! While on tour with late musician and friend Jeff Beck, Depp reportedly treated himself to an eye-wateringly expensive Indian meal at a restaurant in Birmingham, UK. The final bill? A whopping £50,000 (around $60,000 at the time). This guy clearly doesn’t do things by halves!
19. His Children Act, Too
Johnny Depp isn’t the only actor in the family…The A-lister has two children with former partner, French actress and singer, Vanessa Paradis. His eldest, Lily-Rose, has carved her own path in Hollywood, starring in major films like The King and Silent Night. Meanwhile, her younger brother, Jack, has dabbled in acting but prefers a more private life, out of the public eye.
20. Johnny *May* Have a Long-Lost Son
Talking of kids…As far as we know, Depp doesn’t have any other children. However, in 2022, a Filipino man caused a bit of stir when he posted on TikTok claiming to be Johnny’s long-lost son! According to the TikToker, he believes the actor met his mom in the Philippines while filming Platoon in 1986. Is there something you’re not telling us Johnny?
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21. He Has a Weird Fascination With Bugs
As well as collecting books and collecting Barbie dolls, Johnny has a slightly strange fascination with bugs! Speaking on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 1999, the star spoke about his “giant cockroach” and his collection of creepy crawlies. “I have a kind of profound respect for bugs,” he told Leno.
Slightly weird, Johnny, but hey, at least it’s not a collection of live alligators. We can probably handle some well-preserved butterflies… right?
22. The Star Was Allergic to Chocolate
Here’s a fun fact that might take you by surprise…Despite playing Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, rumor has it that Johnny Depp used to be allergic to chocolate as a kid! I mean… we’d understand if he’d been allergic to dogs or peanuts, but chocolate?! *Cries in Hershey’s kisses*
23. He Said Less Than 150 words in ‘Edward Scissorhands’
Imagine Edward Scissorhands without Johnny Depp — impossible, right? But did you know Depp’s performance relied more on expressions than words? Apparently, he spoke less than 150 words in the entire film! Even Chewbacca in Star Wars got more lines than that!
Guess he didn’t need much of a script then, huh?
24. He Owns an 850-acre Estate in The English Countryside
Let’s be real, when it comes to buying houses, Johnny is extra AF. Back in 2014, Johnny decided to expand his property portfolio once again, by purchasing a huge countryside home in Somerset, UK. Johnny’s idyllic British escape boasts 12 bedrooms and sprawls across a massive 850-acre estate.
In an interview with Somerset Life magazine, Depp explained why he loves his home in the UK: “I just love places with character. British people are cool and will greet you as if you are a neighbor – without going over the top. I like going to places, seeing things and meeting people – but I’m not the great extrovert that people think.”
25. Johnny Speaks French
Living in France with his ex and kids definitely upped Johnny’s language game! Although he might not be as fluent as his children, when it comes to speaking French, Johnny gives it his all. Over the years, Johnny has casually switched to French for interviews and award ceremonies, winning over the hearts of his French fans.
Bravo, Johnny! It’s clear you’re embracing the language, even if it throws you a curveball sometimes!
26. His Fenty Show Appearance Divided Rihanna Fans
Not long after the highly publicized defamation trial, Johnny was cast to appear in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty show Vol. 4 on Amazon Prime. And while his appearance was welcomed by many of his own fans, others took to Twitter to express their disapproval. One particular comment came from British singer and actor Ollie Alexander, who wrote: “thank you but after this news i won’t be wearing it anymore.” — Eeek!
27. He Owned a Restaurant with Sean Penn and John Malkovich
Johnny’s passion for all things French goes beyond just speaking the language and his romance with Vanessa Paradis. Back in the late ’90s and early 2000s, Depp co-owned a trendy restaurant-bar called Man Ray in Paris. Joined by actors Sean Penn and John Malkovich, as well as musician Mick Hucknall, the trio bought the Parisian eatery and transformed it into a hotspot for celebrities and socialites. Known for its stylish atmosphere, the restaurant was initially a big hit but eventually closed its doors in 2007.
28. He’s An Artist
Depp’s creativity extends beyond captivating performances on screen. Johnny also expresses himself through art. His paintings, including portraits of legends such as Heath Ledger and Bob Marley, have not only earned him recognition as an artist but have also fetched impressive sums at auction! Perhaps his most personal piece, a self-portrait titled “Five,” is said to capture the emotional exhaustion he was experiencing during a difficult period in 2021.
29. He Has 37 Tattoos in Total
When it comes to ink, Johnny doesn’t hold back! Alongside his “Wino Forever” tattoo, the actor has 36 other tattoos, including touching tributes to his mother, daughter, son, grandmother, grandfather, aaaand ex-girlfriend Vanessa (awkward). Discussing his tattoos with The Washington Post, he once said, “To me, it’s like some journal — they all represent different times in my life.”
Johnny’s most mysterious tattoo? The words “No reason” on his right wrist. Apparently, he and Marilyn Manson both share this tattoo but have never revealed what it means… hmmm.
30. He Once Tormented Teenage DiCaprio
At the age of 30, Johnny starred in the movie What’s Eating Gilbert Grape alongside a then-19-year-old Leonardo DiCaprio. While filming, Johnny was going through a break-up with Stranger Things star Winona Ryder and admitted that he sometimes gave Leo a hard time.
In an interview with People, he shared, “I tortured him…I really did. He was always talking about these videos games, you know? I told you it was kind of a dark period.” Despite his frustrations on set, Johnny has praised his younger co-star, saying, “I’d say the absolute truth is that I respect Leo a lot. He worked really hard on that film and spent a lot of time researching.”
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31. His Relationship With His Mom Was Difficult
In an early interview for Inside Actors Studio, Johnny Depp claimed that his mother Betty Sue was “one of the smartest, funniest, greatest people [he’d] ever been lucky enough to know.” But despite “worshiping” his mother, Johnny’s relationship with his mom was turbulent, and exposed Johnny to physical and emotional abuse from an early age.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Johnny recalled, “Yeah, there were irrational beatings…Maybe it’s an ashtray coming your way… Maybe you’re gonna get clunked with the phone.” Many of these details came to light during his trial with Amber Heard, where he talked about his tough childhood to explain some of his behaviors and emotions.
Betty Sue passed away in 2016, after struggling with emphysema.
32. Johnny Once Stole Harrison Ford’s Limo
Here’s a fun fact about Johnny Depp! According to Far Out Magazine, the Hollywood actor once convinced Harrison Ford’s limo driver to let him and his agent use Harrison’s car whilst trying to escape The Academy Awards. At the time, Johnny had apparently had a “few too many cigarettes” and was experiencing a nicotine seizure.
Speaking in an early interview, he recalled, “We told his driver, ‘Listen, there’s still another hour and a half left to this thing. Just take us to the hotel, and then you can come back. He’ll still be here.’ All in all, it was an awful experience.”
Looks like Johnny needed a faster getaway than the Black Pearl could offer!
33. There’s a Reason Why He Wears Sunglasses So Often
Why does Johnny wear sunglasses inside? Apparently it’s not just because he wants to look “cool”…
Like many of us, Johnny struggles with his eyesight and those “sunglasses” are actually blue tinted glasses to help with his vision! Speaking to Rolling Stone in 2013, Johnny confessed that he’s “blind as a bat”, adding, “I’ve never had proper vision…The right eye is simply nearsighted (and lately, far-sighted).”
34. He Dated His Lawyer
Who knew Johnny had a thing for lawyers? In 2022, Depp was loved up with lawyer Joelle Rich, a London-based attorney who represented him in his libel case against The Sun newspaper in the UK. Their whirlwind relationship reportedly began after the trial, although details about their relationship were kept relatively hush-hush.
While Joelle wasn’t involved in Depp’s U.S. defamation case against ex-wife Amber Heard, she was seen supporting him during the trial.
35. Jack Sparrow Was Inspired By Keith Richards
Where did Johnny get inspiration for Jack Sparrow? Before you ask — nope, it’s not Captain Hook.
According to an interview with IGN, the actor was inspired by Rolling Stones rock legend Keith Richards! “I sort of thought that pirates would be the rock and roll stars of the 18th century, you know? Then, when you think of rock and roll stars, the greatest rock and roll star of all time, the coolest rock and roll star of all time, in my opinion, is Keith Richards. Hands down,” he told IGN.
That explains the rock ‘n’ roll eyeliner!
36. There’s a Fossil Named After Him
Yep, you read it right: someone decided to name a fossil after Johnny Depp (sort of). In 2013, a scientist named a 505-million-year-old extinct creature “Kootenichela deppi” in honor of Johnny Depp. The creature had large, scissor-like claws that reminded the scientist of Depp’s character Edward Scissorhands, and that’s how it got the name!
Looks like Johnny Depp has been wielding shears for a lot longer than we thought!
37. He Owns a Production Company With His Sister
Johnny’s love of film has inspired him to do more than just act! He has his own production company called Infinitum Nihil, which means “nothing lasts forever” in Latin. Depp started the company in 2004 alongside his sister Christi Dembrowski, and they have gone on to make movies like The Rum Diary, Dark Shadows, and even a handful of TV dramas.
Pretty cool side hustle, right?
38. Johnny Was Named the “Sexiest Man Alive” Twice
If you’ve always had a thing for Mr. Depp, your feelings are very valid! Back in 2003 and 2009, Johnny was named the “Sexiest Man Alive” by People magazine.
What’s your favorite fun fact about Johnny Depp? Let us know in the comments below!
Originally published in June 2016.
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Not knowing how people are sometimes extremely different than the characters they play in the movies. Some celebrities do this just for publicity. I feel like Johnny Depp is not one of them. He seems like the kind of person that wants to make people smile even in that situation or an unhappy one. Everyone has their own judgment on them different people but as for me I make mine on my my experiences with a certain person. I don’t believe in hamburgers accusations but I don’t know him personally and I don’t know her. Anyone can save oh this person abused me but you can do that to yourself to see if money out of someone but you can also have a friend give it for you and just to get money out of somebody that probably has more money than needed.
Johnny Depp is an amazing person, considering all that he does for fans and children, who could ever even think he would do that. And it is crazy of Amber Heard to say that.
We are currently sharing the planet with one of the greatest actors and talent of our time. We are here living amongst a living legend. Everyone who has ever known him describes him as a giving, kind person. During his trial with Heard much evidence was given to prove he was a victim of domestic violence by the accuser and not the other way around.
Johnny Depp is truly a brilliant actor and as far as some of his interviews before he doesn’t care much for the awards, for him being nominated was already a great honor for him. He is so kind, gentle, generous and intelligent. I like his movies and performances as an actor, I know in time his credibility and fame will turn up again as the saying goes, “you can not put a good man down.”